The Shri Badrinath Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is the only shrine that is part of both the Char Dham and the Chota Char Dham circuits. Because it is closed for six months of the year due to heavy snowfall, the six months it is open are incredibly busy.
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For the 2026 season, here is the “ground reality” schedule you need to plan your trip.
1. Badrinath Opening & Closing Dates 2026
The dates for the temple opening are traditionally decided on Basant Panchami, while the closing dates are finalized on Vijayadashami.
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Opening Date: The temple portals (Kapats) opened on April 23, 2026, at 6:15 AM.
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Expected Closing Date: Tentatively November 13, 2026 (on the occasion of Bhai Dooj).
2. Daily Darshan Timings
While the temple technically opens very early for special pujas, general public darshan follows a specific window to allow for the deity’s meals and rest.
| Session | Timings | Notes |
| Morning Session | 4:30 AM – 1:00 PM | The most spiritual time, but also the busiest. |
| Afternoon Break | 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM | Temple Closed for Bhog and rest. |
| Evening Session | 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM | Beautiful atmosphere as the sun sets over the peaks. |
Insider Tip: If you want a peaceful experience in 2026, aim for the 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM slot. Most of the day-trippers have left by then, and the queue moves much faster.
3. Official Aarti & Puja Schedule
Witnessing the Aartis is a highlights of the Badrinath yatra. Note that some morning pujas require advance booking through the BKTC official website.
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Maha Abhishek (4:30 AM – 6:30 AM): The most significant morning ritual. This is a “closed-door” puja for those who have booked tickets (VIP Darshan).
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General Darshan Begins (7:30 AM – 8:00 AM): After the morning Abhishek is completed.
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Rajbhog Aarti (11:30 AM): The midday offering of sacred food.
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Geet Govind & Evening Aarti (6:00 PM – 7:30 PM): A rhythmic, musical ceremony that is highly photographed.
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Shayan Aarti (8:30 PM): The final prayer of the day before the Lord retires.
4. 2026 Entry & Ticket Prices
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General Darshan: FREE. There is no charge to stand in the regular queue.
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Special/VIP Pujas: These range from ₹1,100 to ₹5,100 depending on the ritual (e.g., Ved Path, Sahasranam Path, or Maha Abhishek).
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Registration: Mandatory. Even though entry is free, you must register on the Uttarakhand Tourist Care portal to get your Yatra QR code.
5. Essential “Human” Survival Tips for 2026
The Tapt Kund Ritual
Before you enter the temple, it is tradition to take a dip in the Tapt Kund, the natural hot springs located just below the temple entrance. In the 5°C morning air of Badrinath, this 55°C water is incredibly refreshing—but be careful, it is very hot!
Weather & Clothing
Even in May and June, the morning temperature can drop to 5°C.
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Wear Layers: Don’t just bring one heavy coat; wear thermals and layers you can remove as the sun comes out.
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Footwear: You’ll have to leave your shoes at the stand. Bring thick socks to walk on the stone floors, as they can be freezing in the morning and scorching by noon.
The Mana Village Trip
Don’t just visit the temple and leave. Drive or walk 3km further to Mana, the “Last Indian Village.” You can see the Saraswati River’s origin and the famous “Bheem Pul”—a massive rock bridge.
Network & Payments
Digital payments are growing in Badrinath, but the mountain network is unreliable. Carry enough cash for small offerings, prasad, and local transport. Your UPI might not work exactly when you need it.
